you are correct, utah junipers. it seems to depend on the soil conditions (sandy, too much water) and exposure. yes, they are a lot shorter than ones, say, a mile more along this ridge. The light green is all sage brush. A lot of the time around this area, forest is refered to as a PJ forest, small short pinons, and very tall junipers. These are probably short becuase of the exposure. It's hard to tell, but on my right in the picture, the ground suddenly drops over 2000 feet to the canyon floor. On my left there is a huge cliff that finally climbs to the top of the platue. So the area is completely exposed to east blowing winds. Some of the most rugged country out there though. Pants are Columbia Titanium. Never thought i'd wear columbia, but i liked them. Exceptionally rugged, breathable, dry quickly. Keep in mind, i wouldn't usually be wearing a shell here, it's usually around 95-100 in the summer. Jacket is mounain hardwear escape jacket, i'll post the link below. There are ticks, but i have never had a problem, it's advised to keep an eye on your ankles though. cheers!